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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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get shit done

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'get shit done' is not correct for written English and should not be used.
The phrase could be considered vulgar and off-putting, so it is generally best to avoid it in written language. For example, instead of writing "Let's get shit done," you could write "Let's get started on the project."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

They get shit done.

They want to get shit done.

News & Media

The New Yorker

"Get shit done," reads one scribble on a blackboard.

News & Media

The Economist

Angelina Jolie, because she really seems to get shit done.

As Bono is reported to have said of Bill, he is able to "get shit done".

I know three or four drillers, and everyone on their crew is high, but they get shit done and they don't care.

News & Media

The New Yorker
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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Nides "was the king of getting shit done," Dan Feldman, the former special representative to Afghanistan and Pakistan, told me.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Negan demurred, arguing Rick was more useful to him alive: "He's swallowing his hay and getting shit done".

Did that hurt Moses when he was getting shit done?

News & Media

TechCrunch

Office dog — The reason why no one got shit done today.

News & Media

TechCrunch

This is a post to new entrepreneurs about getting shit done.

News & Media

TechCrunch
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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In professional or formal communication, replace "get shit done" with more appropriate alternatives such as "achieve results" or "accomplish tasks".

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "get shit done" in formal emails, reports, or presentations; its informal and vulgar nature can be unprofessional.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

87%

Authority and reliability

2.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get shit done" functions as an imperative, urging action and emphasizing the completion of tasks. While frequently used, as Ludwig indicates, it is considered grammatically incorrect in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "get shit done" is commonly used, especially in News & Media, it is grammatically incorrect and highly informal. As Ludwig AI highlights, its vulgar nature makes it inappropriate for professional or academic settings. When aiming to convey the idea of accomplishing tasks, it's best to opt for more formal and suitable alternatives like "achieve results" or "accomplish tasks". It is important to carefully consider the context and audience when choosing language to ensure effective and appropriate communication.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "get shit done"?

You can use alternatives like "accomplish tasks", "achieve results", or "make things happen" depending on the context.

Is "get shit done" appropriate in formal writing?

No, "get shit done" is not appropriate for formal writing. It's considered vulgar and unprofessional. Opt for more formal alternatives in professional settings.

How can I use "get shit done" in a sentence?

While grammatically incorrect for formal writing, in informal contexts, you might hear: "The team needs someone who can really "get shit done" to meet the deadline".

What's the difference between "get shit done" and "deliver results"?

"Get shit done" is an informal and vulgar phrase, while "deliver results" is a more professional and appropriate way to express the same idea.

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Source & Trust

87%

Authority and reliability

2.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: